Building Permits in Forsyth County, GA

GA, a small accessory concrete slab (walkway, patio pad, small equipment pad) of 200 square feet or less at grade is exempt from a building permit. Larger slabs that will support a future structure or are part of a building foundation fall under the building permit. Impervious surface counts toward zoning lot-coverage limits.

GA, a freestanding deck not more than 30 inches above grade and not more than 200 square feet is exempt from a building permit under 2024 IRC R105.2 (GA Amendments). County zoning setbacks still apply. Steep-slope parcels (>=25% slope) may need separate review. Parcels inside the City of Cumming use the city's Planning & Zoning at (770) 781-2024.

GA, fences 7 feet or less are exempt from a building permit under 2024 IRC R105.2. County zoning may regulate front-yard fence height (typically 3-4 feet) and setbacks. HOA covenants in Forsyth subdivisions often restrict fence material, color, and placement. Lake Lanier waterfront: Army Corps shoreline rules apply.

GA, an at-grade uncovered concrete or paver patio is exempt from a building permit. Adding a cover, roof, or screen enclosure turns the covered area into an accessory structure requiring a building permit. Impervious surface counts toward zoning lot-coverage limits and watershed-protection stormwater rules.

GA, a retaining wall 4 feet or less measured from bottom of footing to top of wall, without surcharge, is exempt from a building permit under 2024 IRC R105.2. Steep-slope parcels (>=25% grade) may trigger additional review. Drainage and erosion control remain the owner's responsibility.